Human destruction of the natural environment is increasingly severe, leading multiple cities around the globe to face a sinking crisis. Take Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, for example. This city, with a population of over 4 million, is situated on the Chao Phraya River delta, characterized by low elevation and high groundwater levels due to excessive extraction. With annual rainfall exceeding 1500 millimeters, the groundwater level continues to rise. As a result, Bangkok is sinking at an alarming rate, causing noticeable tilting and cracks in the parliament building, while many canal areas have already sunk by over 30 centimeters. Similarly, Mexico City has sunk by 7.8 meters since 1900, primarily due to its sponge-like geological structure, where clay contains petroleum components, and the diatom action following volcanic eruptions has made the land softer. The situation is even more dire in Venice, Italy, where buildings are gradually sinking, with entire structures submerged in water, prompting residents to flee. Geologists predict that this city may vanish within the next 100 years.
These phenomena serve as a warning that human activities' impact on the natural environment cannot be ignored. We must take action to protect our planet.
